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Tax Refunds Are Up, Filings Are Down As Tax Season Gets Started
The average refund increased 10.9% to $2,290 as fewer returns were filed and processed, with total refunds rising 1.9% despite an 8.1% drop in refunds issued, IRS data shows.
- Data show the IRS reported as of Feb. 6, average refunds increased 10.9% to $2,290, despite a slower filing pace.
- The totals show nearly $16.7 billion was refunded, rising 1.9% to almost $17 billion, while over 7.4 million refunds were issued as of Feb. 6, and nearly 22.4 million returns received, down from last year.
- Average direct deposit data show the average direct deposit refund is $2,388, up 10.3% from $2,165 last year, and taxpayers preparing to file are advised to set up direct deposit to receive refunds sooner.
- IRS guidance shows e-filed returns process within 21 days, mailed returns take six weeks or more, amended returns up to 16 weeks, and taxpayers can check status within 24 hours using the `Where's my refund?` tool.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said taxpayers will receive large refunds this filing season and expects `VERY LARGE` tax refunds early next year.
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Average IRS tax refund jumps 10.9% early in filing season
Early IRS data shows the average 2026 tax refund is $2,290 as of February 6, up 10.9% from $2,065 at the same point in 2025. Total refunds issued so far exceed $16.9 billion, a 1.9% increase compared to the previous year, according to the IRS. What they’re saying: Treasury Secretary and acting IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent claimed refunds were up 22%, but details about the comparison period were unclear. The IRS says “average refund amounts ar…
Coverage Details
Total News Sources17
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution86% Center
Bias Distribution
- 86% of the sources are Center
86% Center
C 86%
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